Essential N26

JANUARY 2011

THE RULE OF TRADITION

Food & beverage expert David Wong, and his rituals for the season THE SPECIAL ‘LAI SI’

Check out our shopping list RABBIT PREDICTIONS for Chinese New Year See what astrologists say about 2011 the Year of the Rabbit

BREAKDOWN

BY THE NUMBERS

ALL NUMBERS RELATED TO CHINESE NEW YEAR WERE DISCOVERED IN THE VERY SECRET WORLD OF THE INTERNET!

MOP100

It can be MOP100 or MOP1,000, but it has to be an even number – odd numbers are for funerals. During this time, small red envelopes (“lai si”) containing money are given out to family and friends to wish prosperity and luck. The money should be given in a single note and should certainly never contain any coins.

4

It’s the forbidden number.

During Chinese New Year, never offer anything in fours, as the number four (四) can also sound like “death” (死), in Chinese.

If this is true during the whole year, this is especially true during this superstitious season.

12

An unlucky age during Chinese New Year. The Chinese Zodiac uses a cycle of 12 – so for those who will be turning 12, 24, 36 (or any multiple of 12) during the Year of the Rabbit, it will be an unlucky year, according to traditional belief.

9,500

The total number of commemorative coins issued by the Monetary Authority of Macau to celebrate 2011 the Year of the Rabbit. There are three types of coins, with face values of MOP20, MOP100 and MOP250, respectively.

4,709

The Chinese year that starts on February 3, 2011, according to the Gregorian calendar.

Traditionally, the Chinese use a 60 year-cycle calendar that can be traced back to Emperor Huangdi, in 2,637 BC. A complete cycle takes 60 years and is made up of five cycles of 12 years each.

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After Christmas and the Western New Year, comes Chinese New Year. Or should we say Lunar New Year, given it is celebrated in several places in Asia?

Regardless of the name, it’s probably the most important celebration in this part of the world. What to do, where to go, what should you give? We help you out with these dilemmas.

First and foremost, we have searched online for the astrological predictions and found that the Year of the Rabbit will bring changes for everyone. We have also found your compatibilities and incompatibilities in love, so read on if you want to know more.

Furthermore, we interview food and beverage expert David Wong and hear how an unconventional man enjoys Chinese New Year in a typical and traditional fashion.

But if you want to move away from tradition a little bit, then we have searched around and found some interesting gifts that may be an alternative to the usual “lai si” (red pocket with money). Alongside clothes, accessories and jewellery, we have even found a new Shiatsu massage at The Spa at Crown. For stressed friends and relatives, it is guaranteed relaxation.

While we’re on the subject of original gifts, why not the most expensive of all? White truffles! Late last November, Stanley Ho Hung Sun did it again. During a charity auction, his SJM Holdings paid US$330,000 (MOP2.64 million) for two pieces of white truffle weighing a total of 1.3 kilograms. For Mr Ho and for many others, white truffles are definitely the most wanted item on their gifts list.

Finally, if you want to celebrate Chinese New Year the unconventional way, then head off to some of the great restaurants in town. We analyse their menus and give you some ideas on where to eat out during your Chinese New Year. Enjoy!

The Lunar New Year in China

The Lunar New Year in the rest of Asia

In China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Tibet and Mongolia, the Lunar New Year celebrations fall on or near the same day, because these countries follow the lunar calendar.

In some Asian countries, celebrations of the Lunar New Year fall on different days because they follow a lunisolar calendar: this is the case in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and India.

Legend has it that the celebrations of Chinese New Year may be related to a beast known as Nian. The beast came out to eat people on the night before the beginning of a new year until an old man found a way to control it. Then people started to observe and celebrate Chinese New Year.

Legend has it that in India, everything started with Prince Rama.

He was banished to the forest for 14 years by his stepmother but, after rescuing his kidnapped wife from a neighbouring princedom, he returned and reclaimed his throne.

In China, the festival is celebrated everywhere almost the same way. A week before the New Year, men bid farewell to the Kitchen God, who makes a week-long annual report to the Jade Emperor in Heaven. Sweet, sticky food, especially the syrupy malt sugar, is offered to his image in the kitchen to please him, but also to glue his mouth shut.

In India, the festival is celebrated according to regional customs.

Most mark the day by worshipping Lakhmi, the Hindu goddess of prosperity and Ganesh, the god of wisdom and good fortune, visiting loved ones and exchanging homemade traditional sweets.

The ostentatious festivities begin on the first full moon of the year and last for 15 days. They involve firecrackers, flowing silk dragons dancing in the street and opulent feasts of auspicious-sounding dishes and sweets.

Koreans tend to celebrate the lunar New Year, or Sol, with a whole less pomp than other Asian groups because they are caught between two calendars – and consequently two New Years. The celebrations involve nice quiet family time, ancestor worship and lots of rich food.

You should eat certain foods such as black moss seaweed, which is a homonym for exceeding in wealth, and dried bean curd, which is another homonym for fulfilment of wealth and happiness.

Popular Tet (Vietnamese New Year celebrations) dishes include banh chung, a square shaped, sweet rice cake stuffed with mung beans and pork. It’s usually eaten with dua mon, a concoction of pickled radishes, peppers and other vegetables.

In China, people greet each other during this time by saying “gong hei fat choy” (meaning “congratulations for striking it rich”) or just “gong hei” (meaning “congratulations”). Children get “lai si”, pocket money in tiny red envelopes from married adults.

In Thailand, people greet each other during Songkran with a water sprinkling ritual. During the four days of festivities, which fall in mid-April, people sprinkle and douse each other with perfumed water to symbolize cleansing and renewal.

The 15th day of the lunar month is the last day of the festivities, usually called the Lantern Festival. But it is also traditionally considered the Chinese Day for sweet-hearts, since it was considered the time when women could leave the house to have fun.

A big part of Cambodia’s Xyoo Tshiab are matchmaking affairs, given it’s the time of vacation from the task of tending farms for the Hmong tribes.

SEVEN DEADLY SINS AND THE CHINESE NEW YEAR Gluttony – During Chinese New Year, you’re expected to raid the sweet shop and eat as much candy as you can. It is believed that it will deliver you a sweeter year.

Just be aware of any eventual pain in your stomach afterwards.

Greed – Yes, it’s New Year, but don’t think of renewing your wardrobe and shoe collection. The word “shoes” in Cantonese also means “rough”, so during the holiday period it is better to avoid some rough seas.

Lust – Don’t lust for meat during this season. You are supposed to eat a lot of fish, since Chinese believe this will bring luck and prosperity.

Sloth – Before Chinese New Year celebrations begin, you

must avoid laziness and clean your house thoroughly in order to sweep away the bad luck.

Envy – It’s useless to envy anyone’s good hair, since during this season you should avoid hairdressers. Otherwise, your luck will be chopped off.

Wrath – Avoid getting angry with your children on New Year’s day. It is believed that if you cry on that day, you will do it throughout the year. Therefore, children’s misbehaviour is particularly tolerated.

Pride – Yes, you’re allowed to be proud, because you’re paying off all your debts. The Chinese believe that if you start your year in debt, you’ll finish it like that. But it’s a good kind of pride.

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FEATURE

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hiatsu is an old Japanese massage technique that uses finger pressure to relieve any discomfort caused by jet lag, muscle pain, headache, anxiety or stress. So if any of your loved ones suffers from these, why not offer them a few sessions at The Spa at Crown as a Chinese New Year gift?

“It’s a traditional massage that helps the body to recover, without the need for taking drugs or

chemicals,” explains Terry Liew, Shiatsu master, who recently visited The Spa at Crown to train the resident therapists.

Different from regular massages, shiatsu will stimulate the body, helping it to self-repair.

“The normal massages available elsewhere make you feel good at the time, but the next day you go back to your normal state,” says Mr Liew.

It’s a holistic approach. Through rhythmic finger and palm pressure, shiatsu masters detect the imbalances of the body and try to improve the natural flow of energy. And with no massage oil being applied, you just need to relax and leave yourself in the hands of the experts.

Depending on your problems, you might need several sessions. Care to try it out?

BIG SPENDER

White and expensive For this month, we suggest an original and particularly expensive gift: white truffles.

In November, Stanley Ho Hung Sun’s SJM Holdings paid US$330,000 (MOP2.64 million) for two pieces of white truffle weighing a total 1.3 kilograms, during a charity auction. It was the highest bid at the international white-truffle auction that raised a total of US$417,200.

Truffles are considered a culinary delicacy, so rare that they are often found at charitable events such as this auction. But why are these mushrooms so expensive?

To start with, white truffles are available for only a few months a year and they have to be discovered by pigs (truffle hogs) or dogs. Furthermore, they come mostly from one part of Italy, the Langhe area of the Piedmont region, in northern Italy.

The most famous ones – also the most delicious ones – are from the countryside around Alba. And there is no other way to get them other than by setting off pigs in Piedmont. Don’t even think of trying to grow them in your backyard.

Add to this the rare aroma, taste and the aphrodisiac qualities, and this is definitely one the most precious presents you can give to anyone who really enjoys food.

Mr Ho would certainly enjoy such a gift. Let’s not forget that this is the second time his name has been in the newspapers because of truffles. In 2007, he paid a record US$330,000 for a 1.5 kilogram white truffle.

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FIRST PERSON

HE WAS BORN IN HONG KONG, BUT GREW UP IN THE UNITED KINGDOM AND SPENT MOST OF HIS ADULT LIFE ABROAD. HOWEVER, GIVEN HIS VERY TRADITIONAL FAMILY BACKGROUND, DAVID WONG YUK SHAN STILL FOLLOWS THE LONG-ESTABLISHED PRACTICES DURING CHINESE NEW YEAR. THE HEAD OF THE FOOD & BEVERAGE DEPARTMENT AT THE INSTITUTE FOR TOURISM STUDIES REVEALS SOME OF HIS RITUALS

TRADITION IS WHAT IT USED TO BE avid Wong Yuk Shan might have lived most of his life in the United Kingdom, but Chinese New Year is still very important to him. It’s a time for family reunion and traditions, which he follows strictly.

The head of the Food & Beverage department at the Institute for Tourism Studies (IFT) left Hong Kong when he was four. He grew up in the UK and worked in several places, such as France, Thailand and now Macau. But having very traditional parents, his Chinese background is always present when it comes to celebrating this season.

Before the beginning of the festivities, Mr Wong cleans the house, sweeping away all the bad luck and evil spirits remaining from last year. Also, he opens up the windows the night before

New Year’s Day and leaves the lights on, which means he is letting the luck enter into his house. On New Year’s Eve and on New Year’s Day he has a traditional dinner with his family.

On the first day of the New Lunar

THE INTERNATIONAL EXPERT During his career, David Wong Yuk Shan has worked with David Evans, the former vice-president of the World Master Chef Society, the late Jean Bordier, chairman of the Master Chefs of France, and chef Raymond Blanc at his two-Michelin star restaurant “Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons”, in Oxford, UK. Regarding his hotel experience, he has worked at the former Mandarin Oriental in Macau (now Grand Lapa), the Westin Banyan Tree in Bangkok and the Luxury Collection Sheraton in Phuket.

Currently, Mr Wong is the executive assistant manager of the Food & Beverage department at the Institute for Tourism Studies. He has recently released the second edition of his cookbook entitled “The Art of Modern Portuguese Cuisine”.

He is one of the founding members of the Macau Culinary Association as well as the secretary general for Disciples of Escoffier in Macau.

A regular food and wine judge on the international circuit, he also writes restaurant reviews and wine columns for South China Morning Post, Macau Closer, Macau Daily Times and Fine Drinks Magazine. He is an honorary advisor to the Association of Bartenders & Sommeliers in Macau and is an approved tutor for the Wine and Institution Trust, in the UK.

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Year, Mr Wong and his family dress up – preferably in something new – and visit their relatives and friends to wish them Happy New Year. Additionally, he watches his language, avoiding swearing of any kind. If you show any kind of disrespect on this day you risk having an unfortunate year.

The food on the table

On Chinese New Year’s Eve and the first day, Mr Wong’s table is always filled with conventional and non-conventional dishes.

“Raw fish salad (Yee Sang) is the traditional dish but I always remember having turnip cakes and melon seeds for Chinese New Year,” he says. Let’s not forget that fish and seeds symbolize prosperity and good luck.

As for the non-conventional dishes, it varies from year to year. “We can even have a big steak,” Mr Wong explains.

All this food is usually paired with Riesling wine. “It’s a food wine and great with Asian food in general.

Riesling ranges from dry to sweet and should be properly chilled,” he notes.

Life in the UK

Mr Wong lived for 23 years in the UK and always celebrated Chinese New Year there. “It’s not a public holiday, like in Macau, but in the UK there is a large Chinese community. My parents were – and still are – there, as well as a lot of other relatives,” he says.

“Chinese families are very close and the UK is quite small. It’s easy to get in contact and travel around. That’s why we keep traditions.”

While in London, Mr Wong did exactly the same things as he does now in Macau, with one difference: “Afterwards, we went to the pub with friends.”

When his children were born, in Thailand, he also taught them the Chinese traditions. And today, even though they are still very young – 10 and 12 years old - they already are aware of them. “They look forward to getting ‘lai si’,” he says, laughing.

ESCAPES

Philippines’ promotions Why not try the Philippines for a different Chinese New Year? Cebu Pacific has announced a seat sale for its flights from February 1 until March 31, 2011. It may be a very good option for those who just want to relax away from Macau.

It’s a great place to escape the hordes of people that travel to other parts of Southeast Asia during Chinese New Year. With coral-fringed islands, the Philippines have some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling places on offer. Above sea level, the landscape will certainly thrill travellers.

Getting closer Close to us, there’s a good alternative place to spend Chinese New Year: Hong Kong. Forget about the neon skyline, and think of nice beaches and hiking trails. While you’re at it, you can also go out to Lamma Island to enjoy the open views and the fresh seafood at different rustic restaurants. At night, cruise to some of the trendiest bars in Soho to drink some chocolate martinis and mango daiquiris.

If you’re the outdoor type, camp out on Pui O Beach on Lantau Island. Right around the corner from the hectic city, this is a small paradise. You can also take a peak at the Giant Buddha statue, at Po Lin Monastery.

In Hong Kong, you can have the busy city life as well as the calming outdoors and beach life. It’s a good solution for those who do not have much time, but still want to enjoy a few days away.

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GOURMET

Instead of a traditional Chinese New Year meal in your home, treat yourself to some of the city’s best gourmet options for the season

Something new Square Eight restaurant has been renovated

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nother reason to be excited during the Chinese New Year, Square Eight is re-launching with a new concept that tries to reflect the uniqueness of various Chinese regional specialties with creativity.

Square Eight is in its new phase after renovation, having reopened its doors last month. Trendy and stylish decorations together with an introduction of exquisite cuisines on the new menu are the highlights of the re-launch.

Being a Michelin recommended restaurant for three consecutive years, Square Eight offers popular Southeast Asian classics, Macanese favourites and Chinese cuisines.

In addition, chef Mingo Wan and the culinary team have introduced a series of Chaozhou and Shanghainese traditional

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dishes, as well as Northern Chinese specialties such as stir-fried prawns with chilli soya sauce and Sichuan styled spicy beef with peppercorns among many others.

Chef Wan brings with him over 30 years of culinary expertise. In the kitchens of Hong Kong and Macau, he perfected his skills delivering high quality dishes, true to their origins. His vision of fresh, wellsourced ingredients, flavour-driven dishes and value for money offerings has gained him a strong reputation in the region.

Square Eight at MGM Macau, with its new face and enticing dishes, is a perfect choice for families and friends to celebrate Chinese New Year.

Chef Wan

Modernity and tradition At MGM Macau

This Chinese New Year, at MGM Macau, special meals will be available at Grand Imperial Court, Imperial Court and Aux Beaux Arts restaurants, where, once again, tradition will be reinvented.

At Aux Beaux Arts, between February 3 and 5, for MOP888, you can enjoy a menu that includes Alaskan crab in spicy tomato jelly, horseradish foam and micro green, smoked eel and foie gras terrine with roasted sea weed and green tea celery chutney, alongside baby shrimp consommé on pan seared goose liver with braised salsify and borage flower.

As for Imperial Court, there will be two different set dinners during this time, for MOP9,880 (for 12 people) or for MOP980 per person.

The Chef highlights, from February 3 to 28, are the braised superior shark’s fin soup with sea urchin and crab meat, braised sliced African abalone with boneless pork knuckle in oyster sauce, and wok- fried sea whelk with morel mushrooms and white asparagus.

At Grand Imperial Court you can choose between two set dinners (MOP10,800 for 12 people, or MOP980 per person), where the highlights will be wok-fried supreme shark’s fin with crab meat and farm eggs, braised whole conpoy with sea moss and dried golden oysters, as well as slow-cooked superior fish maw in saffron flavoured chicken broth. It’s definitely an indulgent alternative for those who prefer to eat out during this period.

Fish, seafood and Japanese At Altira

Ying, Tenmasa, Aurora and Kira, at Altira, will serve a special menu during Chinese New Year. For this season you can expect seafood, dim sum and (unconventional) Japanese delicacies.

At Ying, from January 10 until February 28, there will be four set dinner menus, for MOP2,880 (six people), MOP5,888 (12 people), MOP6,880 (12 people) and MOP9,880 (12 people). These include specialities such as braised dried oyster and sea moss, stir-fried scallops and asparagus, as well as shark’s fin soup with crab meat and winter melon. Furthermore, Chinese New Year specialities such

as abalone, shark’s fin, fish maw and sea cucumber in abalone sauce, and double-boiled shark’s fin soup with chicken will be available a la carte.

On the same dates, Tenmasa will also have a Japanese New Year Dinner set, for MOP888, while there will also be an a la carte with other delicacies.

On February 4, the one Michelin star Italian restaurant Aurora will serve a seafood buffet for MOP428.

At Kira restaurant, on February 3 and 4, there will be two unlimited dinner menus (MOP488 and MOP588).

Finally, Altira has some Chinese New Year hampers prepared, with different treats. Special tailor-made hampers can also be ordered. Try it.

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SHOPPING LIST

Watches and jewellery

We have selected the most prestigious items just for you. Think of them when you’re looking for a present for that special someone David Yurman Wave rings

Sterling silver band rings showing wave texture all the way around. With intricate textures, this collection fits the modern man perfectly.

Price: To be announced Where: The Shoppes at Four Seasons

Omega Museum Collection Collector’s Piece Constellation Quartz 35mm for Omega

It’s the perfect piece for women. At only 35mm, this timepiece will bring elegance to any lady.

Price: MOP101,800 Where: Grand Lapa, DFS The Shoppes at Four Seasons

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One of Omega’s biggest strengths is combining traditional values with today’s highest technological standards. These are timeless pieces with an exquisite design.

Price: MOP127,200 Where: Grand Lapa, DFS The Shoppes at Four Seasons

Wave cufflinks by David Yurman

Sterling silver oval-shaped cufflinks, these feature intricate textures and carvings to create a very artistic and contemporary look. A gift for the elegant man.

Price: To be announced Where: The Shoppes at Four Seasons

David Yurman Jumping Hours

One of the Ancestrale’s Tourbillon collection, this watch is a perfect fit for the modern man.

Price: HK$248,900 Where: The Shoppes at Four Seasons

Tourbillon by David Yurman

A 43mm watch with the signature of one of the most elegant watch designers worldwide. A gift he will cherish.

Price: HK$763,700 Where: The Shoppes at Four Seasons

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SHOPPING LIST

Clothes and accessories

What if you offer a different type of ‘lai si’?

Think about these suggestions

Valentino’s flower bag

With its flower patterns, it’s perfect for this time of the year. This Valentino bag from the spring collection will illuminate you through sunny days.

Price: HK$7,300 Where: Grand Lapa, The Shoppes at Four Seasons, City of Dreams

Tube dress from Valentino

This attire from the spring collection will put you in tune with the season.

Price: HK$40,500 Where: Grand Lapa, The Shoppes at Four Seasons, City of Dreams

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Swarovski crystal Chinese zodiac collection

For the Year of the Rabbit, Swarovski presents the Rabbit, the Sheep and the Pig, given their affinities. By 2012, the Swarovski Chinese zodiac collection will be complete. It will be perfect on your desk and maybe it will bring you luck for the year ahead.

Price: MOP2,450 (Golden Shine Rabbit), MOP2,100 (Silver Shade Rabbit) Where: Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Macao, City of Dreams, DFS The Shoppes at Four Seasons

Red dress

by Valentino

This dress in red will cause a sensation particularly during this season. With the perfect colour for Chinese New Year, this piece from Valentino’s spring collection will bring a shine to any woman who wears it.

Price: To be announced Where: Grand Lapa, The Shoppes at Four Seasons, City of Dreams

Louis Vuitton Monogram Vernis Leopard Zippy Wallet

This different style of wallet comes in Monogram Vernis leather and features a zipper closure. It holds up to eight credit cards and has one compartment for small change and four others for bills and documents. But it is the funky pattern that makes this truly different from any other LV product.

Price: MOP7,600 Where: Grand Lapa, DFS The Shoppes at Four Seasons, Wynn Macau, One Central

Mahina Cirrus, Louis Vuitton It’s one of the new leather goods from the Louis Vuitton collection. With an elegant shape, the Mahina leather bag serves perfectly as a casual bag. It has an engraved press lock, flat shoulder strap and zipped closure.

Price: MOP23,800 Where: Grand Lapa, DFS The Shoppes at Four Seasons, Wynn Macau, One Central

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ZODIAC PREDICTIONS

The Year of the Rabbit

It starts with the passage of the Moon, the patron of love, to the constellation of Sagittarius from the zodiacal constellation of Scorpio. According to many, the Year of the Rabbit is a year of changes

Rabbit

1915 1927 1939 1951 1963 1975 1987 1999 2011

Rat

1912 1924 1936 1948 1960 1972 1984 1996 2008

Ox

1913 1925 1937 1949 1961 1973 1985 1997 2009

Tiger 1914 1926 1938 1950 1962 1974 1986 1998 2010

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It is the year of the Rabbit and the universe is going to conspire in your favour. If you have a business, relax, because nothing bad will happen to it. You can take some time to travel or just to take care of yourself. So, this year you just have to be focused on being happy and expanding your horizons. Change for the better is in order. In love, Rabbits should wise up to not spending unnecessary time with romantic affairs.

Your life may witness tension in family relationships and financial instability, but you will prevail from pursuit of the Rabbit (cat). In the first half of the year, some unresolved issues may complicate your life, but afterwards everything will get better. All you have to do is carefully plan your actions. This year, expect activeness and strength from Rats, stimulating them not to hide from their problems.

In general, the year will be successful, but Oxen will have some reason to worry. Their creative side will show up and Oxen will surprise everyone. In the Year of the Rabbit, they will strive for self-education, science and will read books of wise thoughts. They will feel frustration related to their careers.

Furthermore, their financial position will not be that stable, although by the middle of the year it will find some balance. Adventures, trips and travels, along with new friends will revive their lives. In the end, Oxen will feel the breeze of success.

It will be a very successful year for the Tiger in regards to career.

With perseverance, hard work and good health, Tigers’ lives will be a success. However, given their workaholic tendencies, they may have some problems in relationships and family, weakening the ties. So, the Year of the Rabbit will require a calm attitude, tolerance and understanding.

Dragon

1916 1928 1940 1952 1964 1976 1988 2000

Snake

1917 1929 1941 1953 1965 1977 1989 2001

Horse

1918 1930 1942 1954 1966 1978 1990 2002

Sheep

1919 1931 1943 1955 1967 1979 1991 2003

Dragon will triumph in all fields, even romantic ones. As for Dragons who still haven’t found anyone, this is the year that they’ll have a higher chance of marrying. The only possible foreseeable danger is growth of their ego, feeling the dizziness of success. This might lead to actions that can endanger everything. This is especially true for young Dragons.

The wise Snake will have even greater insight, showing intensified feelings and a very developed intuition. Because they can foresee events, Snakes are not afraid of moving towards their goals. Without having some relaxation, Snakes can make mistakes. This will be a very lucky year in love. However, Snakes should not be over-confident and should not fully rely on strangers.

Passion will dominate the Horse’s life. Even the calmest people from this sign will want to go with the flow of love experiences. Their emotions and feelings will boost their will to create. So, this will be a good year in all fields. Where love is concerned, Horses will have to show prudence in making decisions. They won’t only have one romance, but instead, several. This is a very strong year for Horses, inspiring other people and also shining at social events.

This will be a year that will enable the Sheep to enjoy life and organize their family matters. Sheep will be especially strong in systematic work, such as charitable organizations and fund-raising. However, this might not be a good year to prosper professionally and in business. Their efforts should be towards urgent problems in their personal lives, since married Sheep should really solve pending issues. The single ones will experience passionate love.

W Monkey

1920 1932 1944 1956 1968 1980 1992 2004

Rooster

1921 1933 1945 1957 1969 1981 1993 2005

Dog

1922 1934 1946 1958 1970 1982 1994 2006

Pig

1923 1935 1947 1959 1971 1983 1995 2007

The Monkey will feel full of energy and confident in everything. In the professional field, they will achieve great success. This year, they will want to learn new things and may attend training courses.

However, Monkeys might have problems in family relationships, since they are too busy with themselves.

The Rooster has to be prudent.

Their aggressiveness might cause problems in life, which may lead to some change in their circle of relationships.

Although Roosters will have some equilibrium, they might not have the patience to maintain it. So, they have to control their problematic family life in order to avoid a very difficult and troubled life.

This will be a relaxing year for Dogs. Although, they might have some financial problems, they will be strong at developing new projects and making important decisions. It is a good year for education and redesigning skills. Along with improving professional skills, Dogs must focus on self-improvement.

However, they should control hasty decisions and actions.

Pigs will have no big problems, but they must not blindly trust others. They can expect no global changes, but there will be new meetings and acquaintances. They will surely go through an intense love experience – and that might be outside their current marriage/ relationship – forcing the Pig to live with contradictions.

ho is your best romantic partner? Who is most compatible with you in the bedroom? Here are our answers, according to the Chinese zodiac. Maybe you’ll be surprised.

Since this is the Year of the Rabbit, let’s start with them.

Rabbits in a relationship are romantic and caring, but also very realistic, often having difficulties in settling down. They enjoy the intimacy and tenderness of making love and are more compatible with Sheep and Pigs and least with Roosters.

As for the proud and energetic Dragons, they often hesitate to commit. However, their direct approach means that whenever they meet ‘the one’, they stick with him/her.

They like to experiment while making love, being more in tune with Monkeys and Rats and less with Dogs.

Wise and creative, Snakes do not think of relationships as a priority, but once they get into one, they can be very jealous. Although they are not very good at communicating their feelings, they can be very affectionate under the sheets. Their best partners are Roosters and Oxen, while they are not very compatible with Pigs.

The witty and intelligent Horses are very affectionate.

However, they are prone to falling in love quickly, finding it hard to commit long-term. And even though they are very relaxed people, they have a lot of energy in the bedroom. Most compatible with Dogs and Tigers, they do not have a strong connection with Rats.

Sheep work on their relationships to ensure a lifetime of happiness. Once they’re confident, they are very passionate when it comes to getting intimate. Their best partners are Pigs and Rabbits, while things do not go that well with Oxen.

As for the entertaining Monkeys, they are fun-loving people. They do tend to flirt a lot having difficulties in committing. However, when they do, they are very loyal.

As for sex, excitement and intensiveness are the two words to describe them. They are most compatible with Dragons and Rats and least with Tigers.

Roosters look at love as a challenge. Although they have some difficulties in expressing their feelings, they are very caring. In the bedroom, they aim at intimacy and passion. They best partner-up with Snakes and Oxen, and least with Rabbits.

Dogs are loyal. However, when it comes to relationships they tend to wait. When they do get involved, they tend to worry too much. Prone to keeping their emotions on a leash, they can, however show affection under the sheets. Their best sexual partners are Horses and Tigers, while Dragons and Dogs do not get along.

Then comes the Pig. Since they are dreamers, they get easily disappointed. Loving foreplay, they get along perfectly with Sheep and Rabbits, but not with Snakes.

As for Tigers, they are passionate. Prone to dominate relationships, they are very honest with their emotions.

Spontaneous and creative in the bedroom, they match best with Horses and Dogs and least with Monkeys.

The extrovert and charming Rats are always getting into relationships, being very attractive. In the bedroom, they are playful and full of energy. They are most compatible with Monkeys and Dragons and least with Horses.

Last but not least, comes the Ox. They aim at more traditional romantic involvements and are very generous under the sheets. Roosters and Snakes partner up best with them, while Sheep and Oxen are not a good intimate fit.

So, for the Year of the Rabbit, we wish you a very successful love life. After all, isn’t that what we all want?

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Next month look for Fashion Grand Canal Shoppes, The Venetian Macao 3D Gold 5cm Abiste Adidas agnès b.

Aigle Aimer Alqvimia Anteprima Apothecary Armani Exchange Arté Madrid Artini Ashworth Autore b+ab Bauhaus Belle Bershka Blancpain Blush Bossini Boucheron Boutique di Gondola Boutique V Breil Brooks Brothers Butani BVLGARI Canudilo Canudilo Holiday Caran d’Ache Carat Carl F. Bucherer Century Chai CHARRIOL Chevignon Chocoolate Choi Tai Fook Watch&Jewellery Choi Wai Jewellery Chopard Cirque du Soleil Boutique City Chain CK Calvin Klein CK Jeans CK underwear Clarins Club Monaco Coach Codes Combine Columbia Sportswear Co. Converse Corona Crocodile Crocs Damiani Davidoff Deicae Demandor Derain DG Lifestyle Store Diesel Dilys’ Don Gilato Dooney & Bourke Ecco Edelweiss Jewellery Elegant Prosper Elle Jewellery Elov Empezoni Emphasis Jewellery Emporio Armani Emporio di Gondola Enzo EQ:IQ Esprit Expressions Fabio Caviglia Fables Fancl Fila Fiorucci Florsheim Folli Follie Fossil Francesco Biasia Franck Muller French Connection Furla G2000 Geox; Joy & Peace Giordano girls talk

2115 2611 2629 2211 2615 2419 2628a 2606 2618 1036b 2442a 2623c 2015 2323 2643 2312 2428 2108 2508 2706 2642 2210 2007a 2301, 2660 1036b 2610 2711 2523 2006 2705 2005 1001a 2400 2207 2402 2646 2402c 2432 2302a 2118a 2118a 2010 1044 2019a 2622a 2431 2601a 2625a 2446 2009 2423 2211 2211 2212a 2023a 2211 1013a 1001/2623b 2107 2105 1019 2201 2632 2109 K1 2616 2025 1020a 2609 K3 2207a 1021 2020 2700 2660 2115 2612 2303 2103 1008 2300a 2635 2401 2111 2603 2407 2413 2612b 2012 2440 2628 2303 2641 2218 2302c

Giviea K5 Glashütte Original 2706 Godiva 2640a Göessele 2627 Grossé 2631 Guess Accessory 2601 Guess Jeans 2429 H&B Medicine Shop 2120a Hatta Fine Jewelry 1013 Hauber 2622 Hearts On Fire 2008 Herborist K6 Henry Jewellery&Watches2013b Hogan 2510 Home of Swallows 2201a Hugo Boss Orange Label 2031a Hush Puppies 2111 i.t 2328 innée 2636 Izod 2423 Izzue 2613 Jaquet Droz 2523b JC Versace 2001 Jean Scott 2007a Jean Scott Sport 2433 Jipi Japa 2102a Joan&David 2612a Just Gold 2113 Kaltendin 2017a Kego 2402a Kilara & Ceu 2306 Killah 2306a Lacoste 2508a/2403 Lancel 2701 Laneige 2409 Le Saunda 2210a Levi’s 2425 Links of London 2608a LLadró 2013c L’Occitane 2608 Longines 2400 Luisa Cerano 2622 Luk Fook Jewellery 2018 Lush 2636a M Missoni 2630 Malo Clinic & Spa 3015 Manchester United 2215 Mango 2321 Marisfrolg 2619 Marjorie Bertagne 2648 Marlboro Classics 2509 Marathon Sports 2221 Massimo Dutti 2442 Maubossin 1013 Maud Frizon Paris 2650 Max&Co. 2623 Mercato 2508 Michel René 2703 Michele 2621 Mikimoto 2011 Millie’s 2405 Mirabell 2658 Miss Sixty 2438 Mocca 2322 Moiselle 2607 Montagut 2525a Montblanc 2002 Monte Carlo Jewellery 1001a Moreline 2639 Murano 2652 Murphy & Nye 2702 NaRaYa 2212 Natural Beauty Mix 2128 Nautica 2709 Next 2211 Nike 2432a Nine West 2605 Normana 1020 O’Che 1867 2426c Omega 2003a Optica Boutique 1010 Optica Fashion 2005a Optical 88 2019 One Timepieces 2610 Osim 2106 Oto 2120 Outdoor Fashion 2523a Passion Play 2300b Patchi 2111a Paul & Shark 2007 Piaget 2013 Piquadro 2023b Promod 2316 Pull&Bear 2525 Pure and Beautiful K7 Q’ggle 2216 Rado 2006a Raffles 2119b Rayure 2606a

Replay Rich Jade Richard Mille Rimowa Rockport Sa Sa Sa Sa Selective S. Culture S.T. Dupont Samsonite Shiseido Sisley Sisley Paris Sketchers Smalto by Paris Soft & Intimate Sparkling Color ST GE Staccato Stefanel Stella Luna Steve Madden Stone Market Stradivarius STS Canada Sulwhasoo Swarovski Swatch Tara Moor Tasaki The Kiss The Manchester United Experience Thomas Sabo Tie Rack / Bric’s Tiffany & Co. TISSOT Tommy Hilfiger Tonino Lamborghini Tourneau Toywatch Triple Five Soul Triumph and Hom TSL Tumi U-Boat United Colors of Benetton Valente Venetian Flori Venilla Suite Verri Vertu Vilebrequin What For Wolford Y Nan Yes Zara Zydo

2427 2117 1002 2708 2203 2318 2642a 2300 1022 2527a 2017 2310 2630a 2216 2625 2527 K9 2612a 2319a 2421 2026 2612b 2402b 2509a 2643k 2617 2415 2426a 2426 2101 2302b 2215 2426b 2435 2003 2411 2710 2646a 1003 2417 2436 2220 2022 2707 2426 2308 1021 2633 2600 2703a 2006b 2623a 2205 2626 2625 2023 2313 2013b

The City of Dreams Alfred Dunhill Bally Burberry Cartier Chanel Chopard Chow Tai Fook Coach Emporio Armani Gucci Hublot Hugo Boss i TO i Insider IWC Jimmy Choo LeSportsac Longines Marc by Marc Jacobs Omega PENACHE Ralph Lauren Rock Shop Rolex Salvatore Ferragamo Swarovski Tag Heuer The Bubble Shop Timeless Tudor Tumi Valentino Vertu Vivienne Westwood Yves Saint Laurent

L1, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L1 & 2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L1, Hard Rock Hotel L2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L2, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard L1, The Boulevard

The Esplanade, Wynn Macau

Shoppes at Four Seasons

Alfred Dunhill Bvlgari Chanel Christian Dior Ermenegildo Zegna Fendi Ferrari Giorgio Armani Gucci Hermes Hugo Boss Louis Vuitton

Miu Miu Cigar Imporium Piaget Prada Sundries The Signature Shop Tiffany & Co. Tudor Van Cleef & Arpels Versace Vertu Wynn&Co Watches and Jewellery

The Encore, Wynn Macau Cartier Chanel Piaget

Grand Lapa Hotel Bally Burberry Cartier Christian Dior Cigar Imporium Alfred Dunhill Emporio Armani Ermenegildo Zegna Florinda Jewelry Hermes Hugo Boss Orange Label Louis Vuitton Omega Salvatore Ferragamo Valentino

13 1 12 11 17 10 9 2 16 8 5 4&5 6 7 15

DFS Galleria, The Four Seasons Armani Bally Burberry

Caran d’Ache Cartier Celine Chanel Chaumet Chloe Chopard Clinique Debeers

1112 1123 1110 1129 1125 1109 1117 1101/41 1123a 1101/43 1101/22 1101/42

DFS Beauty World DFS Jewellery and Watch World DFS Sunglass World

1101/18-30 1101/33-45

Dior Dior (Beauty Zone) Dunhill

1120 1101/23 1106 1112 1102 1108 1116 1101/44 1101/26 1101/21 1101/28 1101/25 1121 1115 1101/45 1126 1111 1113 1101/29 1101/38 1101/33 1105 1101/31 1101/39 1101/40

Emporio Armani Fendi Gucci Hermes IWC Jurlique Kiehl’s Lancome L’Occitane Loewe Louis Vuitton Omega Prada Ralph Lauren Salvatore Ferragamo Shiseido Swarovski Tag Heuer Tod’s Tumi Vacheron Constatin Van Cleef & Arpels

1101/36

Abiste Alain Mikli Altea Milano Aquascutum Armani Collezioni Audemars Piguet Autore Bottega Veneta Brioni Butani Canali Cerruti 1881 Chic Elegance Cho Cheng Coach Cole Haan David Yurman Diamond SA Diane Von Furstenberg Dilys’ D’urban Ed Hardy / Christian Audigier Gieves & Hawkes Giuseppe Zanotti Givenchy GoldVish S.A. Guess by Marciano H&B Medicine Shop Hugo Boss Juicy Couture Kate Spade Kent & Curwen Kenzo Kwanpen La Perla Lancel Mango Tree Marc by Marc Jacobs Marni Max Mara On Pedder Optica Privé Pedder Accessories Ports 1961 Renaissance Arts Gallery Roberto Cavalli Class and Cesare Paciotti Samsonite Black Label Shamwari South African Diamonds Shanghai Tang Shiatzy Chen Shimansky St. John Stefano Ricci Stuart Weitzman Tse tsesay Valentino Versace

1208 1212 2835b 2836 2805 & 2806 1130 & 1131 1129 2845 2802 1223 2850 2801a 1207 2821 2856 2812 2801 2816 2846 1211 2835b 2820 2835a 2847 2851 1226 2858 1215 2807 2859 2829 2837 2840 2817 2849 2857 2813 2831 2841 2808 2848 2823 2838 2810 1213 2800 2825 2818 2839 2833 2821 & 2822 2809 1128 2850a 2832 2832 2842 2853 & 2855

One Central Bally Bottega Veneta Bvlgari Burberry Cartier Céline CentralDeli CK Calvin Klein Dior Dolce&Gabbana Emporio Armani Ermenegildo Zegna Europe Watch Company Fabio Caviglia Fendi Furla Gucci Hermès Hugo Boss Kenzo Lancel Leonard Loewe Loro Piana Louis Vuitton

Marc by Marc Jacobs Marc Jacobs Max Mara Montblanc Officine Panerai Pal Zileri Rainbow Ralph Lauren Rimowa Salvatore Ferragamo Shiatzy Chen Tod’s Vertu

128-129 G8 G9-G10 125-127 G1-G2 G35 222 232-233 G30-G31 G36-G38 G32-G33 G39-G42 101-107 130 G11-G12 131 G24-G26/ 110-120 G13-G15 132-135 116 139 112 G5 G6-G7 G27-G29/ 121-132/ 229-231 117 G23 113 G4 G22 115 136-138 G19-G20 211 G3/108-109 110 G18 G17